Russia's Role in Cameroon's 2025 Presidential Election

Foreign Diplomacy Gears Up for 2025 Elections

With Cameroon’s presidential election set for October 2025, foreign embassies in Yaoundé are actively positioning themselves for potential political changes. A recent Jeune Afrique report sheds light on the behind-the-scenes diplomatic manoeuvring in anticipation of the vote.

The long-serving President Paul Biya, who has ruled for 42 years, sparked speculation about his political future after disappearing from public view last year. Reports suggested he was receiving medical treatment in France, raising expectations that he might not seek re-election. In response, foreign powers are mobilizing their networks to navigate the evolving political landscape.

France, benefiting from historical ties, remains influential, while the UK has a highly capable ambassador on the ground. The United States recently appointed a Middle East specialist, whose expertise is in demand but whose local connections are still developing. Throughout his tenure, Biya has maintained close ties with Western allies, only strengthening relations with Moscow in 2022. His first-ever visit to Russia occurred in 2023 for the Russia-Africa Summit, signalling a potential shift.

Russia’s Presence in Cameroon

Unlike Western nations with long-standing influence, Russia's involvement in Cameroon remains relatively recent and low-profile. The Russian ambassador to Cameroon, Georgi Todua, arrived in 2023. His prior posting in Burundi (2014-2019) saw him navigate the country's 2015 political crisis, indicating experience in complex political environments.

Russia’s most notable engagement with Cameroon came through the 2022 defence cooperation agreement, which was meant to foster broader collaboration. However, the most active area of cooperation remains military training. According to a 2022 Jeune Afrique report, this agreement resulted from lobbying efforts by pro-Russian elements within Cameroon's military, particularly those dissatisfied with U.S. partnerships.

Russia’s Networks Beyond the Military

Beyond defence ties, Russia has established some footholds in Cameroon’s economy and business sector. One example is Yango, a ride-hailing app operated by Russian tech giant Yandex, which continues to function in Cameroon thanks to a deal brokered with a close ally of President Biya. Additionally, some Cameroonian business figures have connections with Russia, though their influence within the country remains limited due to Biya’s firm grip on power.

While these networks may seem minor compared to Western influence, they could become significant if Cameroon's political landscape undergoes a sudden shift. Russia’s presence in the country may be discreet, but it has established more influence than initially meets the eye.